Pettah Floating Market
Label : Top Things To Do
Timings : 8:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Ways to Experience this attraction
The Pettah floating market, Colombo Overview
Built in 2014 on a restored stretch of Beira Lake, the Pettah Floating Market was designed around roughly 90 waterside stalls. As of 2026 the complex has fallen into disrepair, with most stalls closed and a redevelopment deal under negotiation, so go for photos of the pavilions on the water rather than expecting a working market. The street-level Pettah Market a few minutes' walk away remains the reliable option for actual shopping.
The entrance is on the west side of the market area with a wood-carved flanking marked 'The Floating Market'. The region is beautifully constructed with wooden boards, grey floors, and red terracotta tiles. Several restaurants and eateries in the market area give an enjoyable atmosphere to dine in.
Read More on The Pettah floating market
Tips while visiting Pettah Floating Market
Parking is at the east end.
Food and Restaurants at Pettah Floating Market
There's also a local cafe in the middle of the floating market which is also suitable for some refreshing coffee.
At the far east end, there's a food court surrounded by a pretty mini-park with seating spots.
Across the market, there are numerous other short-eats like ice creams, burgers, burgers, shakes, tea and soft drinks at minimal prices.
Shopping in Pettah Floating Market
- The market is not very large, but one can find a large variety of commodities in the same area.
- Shops sell local handicrafts and eccentric clothes which attract foreign tourists. On the east side of the entrance, one can find a shop selling a variety of colourful snacks.
- At the east end after stalls of plastic dolls and toys, there's a beautiful stretch of fruit stalls and vegetables.
- There are a few souvenir shops.
- There is an electronic shop on the east side of the entrance.
- On the first series of the pavilion from the entrance, there are mobile, camera and radio equipment stores.
- On the second series of the pavilion, there's a range of clothing, jewellery, bags and shoe shops.
Where to shop in Pettah Floating Market:
- The market is not very large, but one can find a large variety of commodities in the same area.
- Shops sell local handicrafts and eccentric clothes which attract foreign tourists. On the east side of the entrance, one can find a shop selling a variety of colourful snacks.
- At the east end after stalls of plastic dolls and toys, there's a beautiful stretch of fruit stalls and vegetables.
- There are a few souvenir shops.
- There is an electronic shop on the east side of the entrance.
- On the first series of the pavilion from the entrance, there are mobile, camera and radio equipment stores.
- On the second series of the pavilion, there's a range of clothing, jewellery, bags and shoe shops.
